Addis Ababa: Do more to help tackle indiscipline – Dr. Apaak to parents

The Deputy Minister for Education, Dr. Clement Abas Apaak, has called on parents to take greater responsibility as the government intensifies action against indiscipline in schools.

Clement Abass Apaak warned that misconduct in second cycle institutions will attract tough sanctions, stressing that families must not ignore troubling behaviour among their wards.

“If they do not caution their wards or do not pay attention to the conduct of their wards in school and their wards engage in acts of lawlessness or misconduct, they should expect the most severe sanctions to be meted out to them,” he said.

Dr. Apaak made the remarks in an interview on the sidelines of the 39th AU Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where he participated in an education-focused side event.

He argued that discipline is central to national development. “We cannot build the Ghana we want or think about a better future if we look on for our future leaders to become indisciplined citizens and misconduct themselves,” he stated. “So, it is for our collective good to ensure that our students at all levels are disciplined and act within the context of the law.”

His comments follow reported violent incidents in some secondary schools in the Eastern Region, including the gang rape of a young lady and the stabbing of a student during the Super Zonal Games. Earlier, a teacher at Kade Senior High School was attacked after preventing students from cheating in the WASSCE.

Detailing government action, Dr. Apaak said the ministry, led by Education Minister Haruna Iddrisu, has pursued prosecutions in several cases. He cited the Kade incident as an example.

“Although the teacher had made peace with the students through the intervention of their families, we still insisted that the law ought to take its course,” he said. “Subsequently, the students were arrested and taken to court. They were found guilty and were sanctioned to pay fines and sign a bond of good behaviour.”

He added that two suspects have been arrested to assist police investigations into the rape case, while the victim is receiving counselling. Investigations into the stabbing incident are also ongoing.

On policy measures, Dr. Apaak highlighted a GH¢25 million allocation to support free tertiary education for persons with disabilities. He also pointed to the free sanitary pad initiative aimed at tackling period poverty.

“But we can’t speak about education, equity, inclusivity, without also speaking about giving equal opportunities, particularly to the girl child,” he said, noting that access to sanitary pads has improved attendance and confidence among girls.